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Charlton Shire Hall meeting held with Council
Publish date: 12 December 2025
More than 70 community members gathered at a meeting in Charlton this week to discuss the current temporary closure of the Charlton Shire Hall due to the potential friable asbestos identified in the decorative brickwork wall cavities in June.
Organised by the Charlton Forum Inc, the meeting was also attended by Buloke Shire Council representatives, including Mayor Cr Milne, Deputy Mayor Cr Hogan, Cr Barrett, Cr Stafford, Cr Delaney and CEO Daniel McLoughlan, and provided an update on the status of the hall closure.
A routine Hazardous Materials Audit conducted in May 2025 found the materials within the decorative brickwork wall cavities could potentially contain friable asbestos. Laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of Amosite asbestos within cavities on the north, east and west walls, with visual inspections indicating deterioration that increased the risk of airborne fibre release.
Council has received quotes for full asbestos removal and like for like restoration or to treat the asbestos in situ and encase it however, noted that any proposed work methodology will need to be approved by relevant authorities.
Mr McLoughlan confirmed that Council will now pursue further technical advice, including additional remediation approaches, and seek further guidance from WorkSafe as part of determining the next steps.
Mayor Milne acknowledged the importance of the hall expressed by the local community in attendance. and the need for a solution to be found however he reiterated the need to also prioritise the health and safety of the community and council staff.
“We greatly appreciate everyone who came along to share their thoughts and hear directly from Council,” Mayor Milne said.
“Whilst we admit our communications could have been better, the meeting was an important opportunity to talk openly about the challenges and opportunities we are working through”.
Mayor Milne also clarified that Councillors have not held any discussions or made any decisions regarding the permanent closure or demolition of the hall.
To support clearer and more consistent communication moving forward, Council will continue to liaise with the Charlton Forum Inc.